USC in talks to play kickoff game in Atlanta as soon as 2015

USC’s held exploratory talks with the Chick-Fil-A Bowl about playing and SEC or ACC team in a season kickoff game in Atlanta as early as 2015, according to a school spokesperson.

The Trojans are one of several teams under consideration. Other teams include Michigan, Ohio State and Notre Dame, according to a report in CBSSports.com. A game against a marquee opponent would be welcome because USC recently scheduled home games in 2015 against Arkansas State and Idaho.

USC plays Arkansas State on Sept. 5, 2015 and Idaho on Sept. 12, 2015 at the Coliseum. The Trojans also play a nonconference game at Notre Dame.

No quarterback update

USC coach Lane Kiffin did not speak to the media Friday or provide an update on the status of USC’s quarterback race. Kiffin is expected to speak to the media today but it is not known if he will name Cody Kessler or Max Wittek the starter.

Jersey switches

Several players changed their uniform numbers Friday. Tailback Ty Isaac switched from 27 to 29. Cornerback Kevon Seymour switched from 23 to 13. Quarterback-tight end Chris Willson went from 17 to 87. Snapper Zach Smith changed from 92 to 60 and wide receiver Aaron Minor from 87 to 46.

Willson’s switch means he will likely play tight end full time now. He has a chance to play in next week’s game at Hawaii if USC’s top three tight ends (Xavier Grimble, Randall Telfer, Jalen Cope-Fitzpatrick) remain injured. Grimble’s got a foot injury while Telfer is still bothered by his torn meniscus from last spring.

Kiffin said he wished more players were available during training camp, when about 20 were injured daily, but was happy overall with the team.

``You always want to improve more but the guys that are out there really improved,’’ Kiffin said.

Kiffin backs Rogers

Freshman wide receiver Darreus Rogers is basically a lock to be the No. 3 wide receiver as long as he overcomes a minor shoulder injury.

``Darreus had a dominant camp when he was in there,’’ Kiffin said. ``He was a mini-Mike Williams.’’